For years, Mikal Bridges heard the criticism. On Saturday night, standing on the championship stage after helping the New York Knicks win their first NBA title in 53 years, he finally had his answer.
“It feels great. It feels great. Fifty plus years didn’t bring a championship to New York. We did it,” Bridges said as during a postgame press conference following New York’s 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
The third-seeded Knicks completed a 4-1 series win behind Jalen Brunson’s historic 45-point performance. Bridges contributed 14 points, four assists and a block in 39 minutes as New York erased another double-digit deficit to secure the franchise’s first championship since 1973.
Much of Bridges’ postgame session centered on Brunson, his longtime friend and former Villanova teammate. The two won NCAA championships together before reuniting in New York as part of the “Nova Knicks” core that also includes Josh Hart.
“JB, that’s just, I don’t know, it’s just, I’ve known him for so long,” Bridges said. “Know how much he works, how great of a person he is, how great of a basketball player he is. I’m just grateful to be, you know, on his side again.”
Bridges repeatedly emphasized Brunson’s leadership and work ethic.
“I know how much he works and how much he wants to win and I’m just grateful to be in this position to be with him and try to go out there and win,” Bridges said.
Later, when asked about Brunson’s influence on the team, Bridges added: “You just follow him and it makes it easy for us. You know what I’m saying? Like, just very grateful to have Jalen be that guy. And we just follow his lead.”
The championship also carried personal significance for Bridges, who reflected on his family roots and becoming the first NBA champion of Togolese heritage.
The emotions continued when Bridges discussed ending New York’s title drought.
Bridges made a point to celebrate with fans after the final buzzer.
“Now we’re here celebrating with the fans. I went around to fans too, just to appreciate them for supporting us all the time,” he said.
The veteran wing admitted the moment was difficult to put into words.
“I’m happy, man. It feels great. Best feeling in the world. I can’t even describe it when I’m being honest.”
Perhaps the most revealing portion of the press conference came when Bridges addressed criticism he faced after arriving in New York. The Knicks paid a significant price to acquire him, and expectations followed immediately.
“Very grateful,” Bridges said when asked about the scrutiny. “The thing is about me, like, I want to always be better. So whatever how they feel, I always want to be better.”
Rather than pushing back against criticism, Bridges said it fueled him.
“The ones that truly care and want me to be better, you know, don’t stop now. Just keep pushing me,” he said. “I know sometimes I’ll struggle, this and that, but just know I’m gonna keep working.”
